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BBB Investigation Gets Results: Bettendorf Sports Card Business Responds

The Better Business Bureau serving Greater Iowa, Quad Cities and Siouxland Region recently looked into and issued a consumer alert about Global Authority of Bettendorf, IA. According to the company's website, Global Authority offers "authentication and grading services for a wide spectrum of collectibles." The BBB has processed over 25 complaints against this company in the last year and has received hundreds of inquiries. Global Authority has earned an F rating with the BBB due to failure to respond to complaints, many of which are considered serious in nature.

Consumer complaints primarily allege that after sending trading cards to the company for authentication and grading, Global Authority refused to return the cards and consumers were unable to reach the company. Upon noting an emerging pattern of complaints, the BBB made several attempts to reach out to the company both by phone and by mail. As the complaint volume rose the BBB undertook an investigation into the activities of the company that ultimately led to a press release, gaining the attention of several area media outlets.

One disgruntled customer who filed a complaint with the BBB stated, "I sent them a 1954 wax pack of Bowman Football cards to be graded and encapsulated by them. They sent me confirmation that they received the item and would start the grading process. They did not bill my credit card, but they kept the pack, which is quite valuable. They would never return my calls or emails regarding this."

We endeavor to assist companies in facilitating positive complaint outcomes and the good news for these complainants is that since the investigation was made the company has come forward and is now communicating with the BBB. Additionally, several consumers have also recently contacted the BBB to advise that their property has been returned to them.

The BBB understands that handing over one's collectibles can be risky business. Personal collections can be of value to their owner for both monetary and sentimental reasons; therefore, the BBB offers the following advice when looking for a reputable authenticating service:

  • If possible, look local. There is always an inherent risk in sending valuables through the mail.
  • Look for companies with a good reputation in the industry. In the world of sports memorabilia, there are card graders that are known and respected throughout the hobby by the majority of serious collectors.
  • Take appropriate measures before mailing your treasures. If you decide to do business with a company that requires you mail your goods, make sure you keep a detailed track of your inventory, insure the package and record your tracking number. Also, make sure your items are adequately insured under your homeowner's policy, should they not be returned.
In other important news, the BBB has recently partnered with Western Union on a new consumer education campaign about scams involving wire transfers, as well as other types of scams. The project, which will be fully launched in the near future, is known as BBB Scam Stopper. The intent of the initiative is to provide an important consumer protection mechanism by increasing public awareness and coordinating with the ongoing efforts of the BBB to educate and warn consumers about the potential abuses and fraudulent schemes associated with wiring funds.